Visit SIGIRIYA – walking distance from Melrose Villas

Sigiriya – one of the world wonders and an archaeological site in North Central Sri Lanka. It contains the ruins of an ancient palace complex, built during the regin of King Kasyapa (477AD – 495 AD). It is one of the 7 world heritage sites in Sri Lanka and is one of it’s most popular tourist destinations.

The Sigiriya site consists of a 180m tall granite rock, whose sides are so steep that at some points the top overhangs the base. At the top of the site there is a palace complex. The ruines of various chambers, stairways and pools can be seen at the top. There is a stone stairway leading from the base to the top of the mountain. About half way to the top, there is a pair giant pair of lions paws which is infact the ruind of a huge head of a lion whose open mouth served as the entrance to the royal palace. Surrounding the palace complex are the ruins of a garden complex consisting of two moats, various pools.

Visit Dambulla – 15 minutes drive

Dating back to the 1st century BC, this is the most impressive cave temple in Asia. It has five caves under a vast overhanging rock, carved with a drip line to keep the interiors dry. In 1938 the architecture was embellished with arched colonnades and gabled entrances. Inside the caves, the ceilings are painted with intricate patterns of religious images following the contours of the rock. There are images of the Lord Buddha and bodhisattvas, as well as various gods and goddesses.

Visit Pidurangala – 15 minutes drive

Pidurangala Royal Cave Temple was built by King kassyapa in 5th century A.D. Spread over 13 1/2 acres, the monastery gave sanctuary to 500 meditating bhikkus (Buddhist monks) and a very important place of Archaeological site. Pidurangala Temple is home for the Largest Image of – – Reclining “Buddha” Statue in Asia,built of Clay & Brick & 48 1/2 feet in Length.

Get a safari in Minneriya National park – 30 minutes to the park entrance

Located between Habarana and POLONNARUWA, the 8890 hectares of MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK is an ideal eco tourism location in Sri Lanka and it is considered as one of the best place to see hundreds of Elephants in their natural habitat. The park consists of mixed evergreen forest and scrub areas and is home to Sri Lanka ‘s favorites such as sambar deer and rarely visible leopards in addition to its main animal “ Elephants”. However the central feature of the park is the ancient Minneriya Tank (built in 3rd century AD by King Mahasena). During the dry season (June to September), this tank is an incredible place to observe the elephants who come to bathe and graze on the grasses as well as the huge flocks of birds (cormorants and painted storks to name but a few) that come to fish in the shallow waters.

Get a Village safari – a unique experience in Sigiriya

To get wonderful time in the Sigiriya and show our culture to the world. Experience one and only of this style of experience in the world.To get wonderful time in the Sigiriya and show our culture to the world. Experience one and only of this style of experience in the world.We would like our guests to take away only pleasant memories of their trip to Sri lanka, while leaving behind only their footprints.We strive to provide the environmentally conscious and responsible tourist with a truly timeless experience. Village tours include

⦁ Bullock cart ride through scenic rural setting
⦁ Boat riding on a lake
⦁ Witness the lifestyle of village people
⦁ Taste village food
⦁ Witness day to day activities of a village house
⦁ Tuk-Tuk tour

Get an Elephant back safari – near the Sigiriya Rock

Elephant Back Safaris not only make it possible to view wildlife while riding an elephant, but also to view the wildlife enthusiasts chances to be familiar with the nature and behavior of tamed Elephants. The holiday makers may opt to share a day with the majestic beast by picnicking in the bush in the shadow of the elephant or by swimming, grooming, feeding the elephant too.

Your Elephant back safari in Sigiriya is a picturesque ride where you go through the view of Sigiriya rock fortress and the surrounding wilderness.

Visit Polonnaruwa – 45 minutes drive

Well preserved City full of Ancient Dagobas, Temples ( Hindu ), Ponds, Moonstones & Beautiful parks. Polonnaruwa which lies 216 km northeast of Colombo was the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura in 993 AD. Also known as Sri Lanka’s medieval capital (11th – 13th Century AD) is a well-preserved city full of ancient dagobas, moonstones, beautiful parks, massive buildings and stunningly beautiful statues.

The majestic King’s Council Chamber, the Lotus Bath, the Lanka Thilaka Viharaya, the Gal Viharaya (rock temple), Watadage ( Round Temple ), Atadage, Thiwanka Temple ( with Great wall paintings )and the statue of one of Polonnaruwa’s great king, King Parakramabahu, are a few of this capital’s memorable sights. The Sea of Parakrama – a vast 12th century man-made reservoir dominates the city.

Visit Anuradhapura – one hour drive

Parks – dated back to the 5th century BC. Walk through the ruins and discover the ancient remains of an old civilization, adorned with beautiful man made lakes. The area is plenty of species of birds and monkeys. Anuradhapura is where you can see the most historical l & the Oldest Tree in the World, The Bo Tree ( Ficus Religiosa ) is venerated by Hundreds of Thousands of Buddhist all over the world